The best restaurants in Denia
Where to eat in Denia:
our gastronomic guide to savor the city
Studying Spanish in Denia is an adventure in many ways… you’re not just learning the language, you’re diving into a culture full of flavors, aromas, and unique traditions. So, if you’re wondering where to eat well in Denia, save this guide — you’ll want to try everything.
And since it’s not all about grammar and vocabulary, today we invite you to discover a very special part of our city: its gastronomy!
Denia is known as one of the gastronomic capitals of the Mediterranean — and that’s no coincidence. From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional tapas bars and food stalls serving the famous red prawn of Denia, this city has something for every palate.
It was also chosen as Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO, a recognition that values its gastronomy on an international level.
Haute cuisine in Denia: for special occasions
Quique Dacosta
If you’re passionate about fine dining, you simply can’t miss this three Michelin star culinary temple. Each menu is a unique sensory journey, full of local ingredients, creativity, and deep respect for the product. Our top recommendation? Try the perfectly cooked red prawn of Denia, unforgettable.
Peix & Brases
Located by the port, this elegant restaurant with two Repsol Suns blends the best of the sea with signature cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a stylish yet relaxed dining experience. Their grilled dishes and fresh seafood are absolutely spectacular.
El Baret de Miquel
A traditional Valencian restaurant that has won the hearts of both locals and visitors with its innovative approach. The menu changes frequently, but standout dishes like the smoked eel, ensaladilla or the foie and almond “Ferrero Rocher” are not to be missed. It’s not easy to get a table, so we highly recommend booking in advance. Totally worth it.
Where to eat paella in Denia: taste of tradition
Restaurante Mena
With over 70 years of history, Restaurante Mena is all about tradition and quality. Perched above the cliffs of Las Rotas, it offers stunning views and authentic wood-fired Valencian paella made with Albufera rice, rabbit, chicken, and seasonal vegetables.
Ca Nano
Located at the end of the beautiful Les Rotes beach, Ca Nano offers a unique dining experience by the sea. Enjoy paellas, a wide variety of rice dishes, and local tapas — and of course, the famous red prawn of Denia — all with the Mediterranean sea at your feet.
Casa Federico
A local favorite for rice dishes. Their mixed paella, combining fresh seafood, chicken, and vegetables, has perfect texture and a rich flavor thanks to their homemade fish broth. They also offer arroz negro, arroz al horno, and fideuà.
The famous Denia red shrimp: where to taste it
El Faralló
One of the top spots to try Denia’s famous red prawn. Caught fresh and delivered straight from the port each morning, the prawns are cooked to order to preserve all their flavor. Dining here is almost a ritual for true seafood lovers.
El Pegolí
Another legendary spot with stunning sea views. Their red prawns are served either boiled or grilled, and every bite is pure Mediterranean essence. They also offer fresh daily fish and other seafood that will have you coming back for more.
Tapas in Denia: eating well without complications
Bar El Marino rotes
A true institution in Denia. If you’re craving homemade tapas made with local ingredients, this is your place. Try the figatells, sepionet, or octopus stew, paired with a good wine from the Marina Alta region.
Els Magazinos
A vibrant culinary hotspot near the castle, Els Magazinos brings together a variety of food stalls and restaurants. You’ll find traditional tapas, local products, and creative cuisine all in a lively, modern space — the perfect spot to enjoy a casual tapas tour in Denia.
Tasca Eulalia
Since 1982, this family-run gem has been a go-to for authentic flavors in a cozy, no-frills atmosphere. With a menu full of traditional dishes and fresh seafood straight from the local market, it’s the perfect place for a hearty, quality meal in the heart of town.
Where to have breakfast or brunch in Denia
Hostal Loreto
In the heart of the old town, this charming spot offers relaxed breakfasts in a beautiful setting. Toasts, homemade pastries, and fresh juices await you on their lovely terrace, a perfect way to start your day before class.
It is also an ideal place to enjoy tapas, meals and its well-known variety of traditional croquettes.
Mala Vita
Located in Denia’s Marina, this boho café is a top choice for healthy breakfasts: avocado toast, açaí bowls, pancakes… Just what you need to fuel up before a study session or an adventure.
Hotel Nou Roma
Right in the centre of Dénia, this hotel offers spectacular breakfasts at an unbeatable price, something that is repeated time and time again by guests and other visitors: during the week it costs just 5 € and at weekends around 7 €, with a buffet of fruit, pastries, first class cold meats and hot options. The garden terrace and the quiet atmosphere make it the perfect place for those who want to start the day with energy without overspending.
Primera Línea Restaurant
As the name suggests, Primera Línea is right by the sea, offering incredible views along with Mediterranean dishes, traditional tapas, and fresh fish. A great choice for a laid-back breakfast or brunch with the sound of the waves in the background.
Cocas valencianas: the most typical snack of Denia
Pont Sec
Cocas are a traditional Valencian flatbread, like pizza. At Pont Sec, chef Pep Romany turns them into gourmet bites. Options include sardine, spinach, cured meats… always made with local ingredients.
Perfect for takeaway, the cocas here are reinvented with unique flavors like sweet blood sausage, truffle carbonara, or marinated tuna. Ideal for a seaside picnic or a tasty snack between classes.
Denia Market
Denia’s traditional market is the culinary heart of town. Here you’ll find fresh produce, artisan meat, and of course, the famous Valencian cocas. From the classic tomato coca to innovative seasonal creations, this is the perfect place to taste tradition while browsing colorful market stalls full of authenticity.
Study Spanish in Denia and enjoy with all your senses.
At TLCdénia we believe that learning Spanish is also living it. And there is no better way to do it than exploring its gastronomy. So, after class, go out, taste, ask questions in Spanish. ask in Spanish what dish they recommend… and savor every corner of the city!
Because in Denia, eating well isn’t a luxury, it’s a way of life.
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Dénia, destination to study Spanish and eat well
